SEDC optimistic about well closures

STOCKDALE -- After more than a year, the directors of the Stockdale Economic Development Corp. (SEDC) are seeing light at the end of the tunnel, with the news that the abandoned wells within the city’s industrial park could be properly closed by July.

The closure of six to nine oil wells abandoned in the 1970s and early ’80s has been one of the goals and objectives of the SEDC directors since the corporation reformed in November 2011. The group also has budgeted $50,000 for the well closures, since this will allow the marketing of additional acreage in the park.

According to SEDC President Frank Bain Jr. after the meeting, SEDC members met earlier April 9 with representatives of the Texas Railroad Commission’s San Antonio office. During the meeting, the locations of the unplugged, abandoned wells were identified; the railroad commission also confirmed it will move forward with the well closures. Bain added that one well located on St. Mary’s Catholic Church property also will be closed.

“It is our hope, [the group] expects up to seven wells will be closed between now and July,” Bain said.

Stockdale EDC directors also heard during the April 9 meeting that the SEDC’s offer to acquire 3 acres formerly used by the railroad was declined. As reported previously, the industrial park is split in two, with 6.45 acres segregated by a 3-acre tract.

Construction of Wheeler Street is expected to be complete by the summer, and the SEDC is seeking guidance for the industrial park’s signage. Committee head Gary West will work with his committee to plan signage and sign placement for the park.